The wind sack is an important safety detail when you are out in the mountains, no matter the time of year. And even if most people associate it with emergency situations, it is also useful for shorter breaks on cold, windy days. Ensconced in its protection, you will rest better, be able to eat and drink without stress and avoid the risk of hypothermia.
Since wind sacks can be used in different ways, it is not a bad idea to get it out at home – preferably when it is really windy. How to use a wind sack:
- Anchor the wind sack to your body, for example by tying a rope around your waist or to the hip belt of your backpack, so it does not blow away.
- Place one foot on the hem and hold up the wind sack so the entrance is filled with air. This makes it easier to crawl into. (Here you need to be a bit quick so the wind sack does not turn into a sail).
- Crawl into the sack and sit on a ground pad or backpack for insulation from the ground. Bring in the food and backpacks only after everyone has crawled into the sack.
- Open the ventilation hole at the head a bit when the wind sack is used in hard winds. It is less stressful for the material if the air has somewhere to go.
- If the wind is so strong that you will have to spend the night in the wind sack, you should try to find some respite in a depression.
- Try to create a column of air between the wall of the wind sack and your body, for example by pushing out the sack with your backpack. This will improve the ventilation and somewhat lower the risk for condensation.
Wind sack – an instruction video
Johan Skullman, equipment expert at Fjällräven, explains how to use a wind sack.